Charles Bourbon
France- Duke of Bourbon
- Italian Wars and Victory at Marignano
- Appointment and Removal as Governor of Milan
- Land Disputes and Treason
- Involvement in Imperial Invasion and Battle of Pavia
- Death at the Siege of Rome
Duke of Bourbon
The Duke of Bourbon was a powerful French feudal lord who served as the Connétable (Commander-in-Chief) of France from 1514.
Italian Wars and Victory at Marignano
During the Italian Wars (1494-1559), the Duke of Bourbon led the French armies to victory in the Battle of Marignano (1515). This triumph cemented his reputation as a skilled military commander.
Appointment and Removal as Governor of Milan
In 1516, Bourbon was appointed Governor of Milan. However, in 1517, he was dismissed from the position by King Francis I, who feared his growing influence.
Land Disputes and Treason
Following his removal, King Francis I attempted to deprive Bourbon of his inherited lands through his late wife, the Duchess of Bourbon. This sparked a conflict between the Duke and the King, leading Bourbon to enter into secret negotiations with Emperor Charles V and Henry VIII of England. After these dealings were discovered by Francis I, Bourbon fled to Italy in 1523.
Involvement in Imperial Invasion and Battle of Pavia
In 1524, Bourbon led an unsuccessful invasion of France by imperial troops. In 1525, he faced the French forces led by King Francis I in the Battle of Pavia, where he achieved a decisive victory and captured the French king.
Death at the Siege of Rome
Following the Battle of Pavia, Bourbon played a key role in the Imperial forces' siege of Rome. However, he was killed during the assault on the city in 1527.
